'|' Eid Mubarak! '|'

Eid-al-Fitr, literally meaning 'the festival of breaking the fast' marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of redemption and sawm (fasting). It falls on the first day of the tenth month of Shawwal. The date varies from place to place and the celebrations commence upon the sighting of the crescent moon by the local religious authorities.

This festival was originally proposed by the holy Prophet Muhammad after his migration to Medina from Mecca.

A tradition states that when Prophet Muhammad arrived in Medina, he found the residents celebrating two specific days during which they entertained themselves and made merry. The Prophet, upon hearing this, said that the Almighty had fixed two days of celebrations and enjoyment which were the two Eids: Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha.

Both these festivals are occasions of thanking and showing gratitude to Allah, remembering Him, and of celebrations and entertainment.

On the morning of Eid-al-Fitr, worshippers wake up early and offer the Salatul Fajr (the pre-morning prayer) before putting on their new clothes and getting ready for the zakat al fitr (charity) before the Eid prayer. The men are then expected to gather, after a sweet breakfast consisting preferably of dates, for a special prayer offered in an open field or large hall.

The prayer consists of a particular 'Salaat' (Islamic prayer) which is divided into two Rakats (units) which must be performed only in a Jama'at (congregation). No call to worship is given for this prayer and it is shorter than most other prayers.

An optional sermon follows the Eid prayer, which is followed by a dua (supplication) asking for Allah's forgiveness, mercy, peace and blessings for all living beings across the world. The sermon also instructs Muslims about the performance of rituals of Eid, such as the obligatory zakat (charity).

After the prayer people embrace fellow worshippers wishing them an Eid Mubarak or Eid Sayeed. They visit their friends and relatives for the celebrations and a grand feast usually consisting of a variety of sweets.

Muslims are not allowed to fast on both eids (eid ul Fitr, eid Ul adha)

An aura of pleasant generosity and happiness prevails, which encourages friendly exchange of Eid greetings, even among complete strangers, thereby strengthening a friendly atmosphere.

Gifts, known as Eidi, are given to children and immediate relatives. Most shops also provide free gifts with every purchase on the days of Eid.

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